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A typical MIG stickout is about how long?

About 3/8 inch of unmelted wire.

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  1. About 1 inch
  2. About 3/8 inch ✔
  3. About 1/8 inch

Why: Stickout is the unmelted wire sticking out of the contact tip. Around 3/8 inch is typical for MIG. Longer stickout reduces heat input.

Huh, didn't know that: Miller says too long a stickout can also compromise shielding gas coverage.

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Stickout is the one thing a welder wants short and sweet, like a good dad joke.
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References

Answer: About 3/8 inch. Stickout is the unmelted wire sticking out of the contact tip. Around 3/8 inch is typical for MIG. Longer stickout reduces heat input.

  1. MIG Welding Tips and Techniques for Beginners (Miller) www.millerwelds.com/en-us/resources/knowledge-hub/mig-welding/how-to/mig-welding-tips-and-techniques-for-beginners
    A typical stickout is around 3/8 inch.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Understanding the Basics of MIG Welding for Mild Steel (Miller) www.millerwelds.com/en-us/resources/knowledge-hub/mig-welding/how-to/understanding-the-basics-of-mig-welding-for-mild-steel
    Stickout is the length of unmelted electrode extending from the tip of the contact tube.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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